Commercial garage doors play an important role in daily business operations. When they fail, work slows down or stops completely. We deal with many of the same problems over and over, and knowing what causes them can help us catch issues before they turn serious. Below are the most common commercial garage door problems and the fixes that usually work best.
Misaligned or Damaged Tracks
Tracks guide the door smoothly up and down. Over time, they can bend, shift, or collect dirt that forces the rollers off course. When that happens, the door may not close all the way or it may stick halfway. We often see this issue after heavy equipment bumps into the tracks.
The fix usually starts with cleaning and checking alignment. If the track is slightly bent, careful reshaping works. If it is badly damaged, replacement is the safest option. Keeping the area clear and inspecting weekly reduces the chance of surprise breakdowns.
Worn or Broken Rollers
Rollers carry the weight of the door along the tracks. Constant use wears them down until they crack or pop off. When rollers fail, the door shakes, squeals, or jams. In busy warehouses, this can stop deliveries or cause safety hazards.
Fixing worn rollers means replacing them with heavy duty ones suited to the door’s size. Lubrication also extends their lifespan, but once cracks appear replacement is the only answer. A quick check during routine service keeps rollers from becoming an emergency.
Malfunctioning Door Springs
Springs balance the weight of commercial doors, which can be hundreds of pounds. A broken spring makes the door slam shut or feel impossible to lift. This is one of the most dangerous failures because springs are under high tension.
We never recommend handling springs without training. The only safe fix is replacement by a professional. Regular checks for rust, gaps, or uneven lifting help us catch weakening springs before they break. Businesses that use their doors heavily should schedule inspections twice a year.
Electrical or Control Panel Problems
Many commercial doors rely on automatic openers with electrical panels and sensors. Problems with wiring, relays, or logic boards make the door unresponsive. Sometimes, power surges or moisture in the system cause random failures.
Troubleshooting begins with checking the power source and wiring. Resetting the opener may restore function. If the control board is damaged, replacement is required. Preventing this issue means protecting the system from water and using surge protection where possible. Booking regular inspections through garage door repair services helps identify electrical faults early.
Sensor Misalignment and Safety Features
Modern doors have sensors that stop the door if something is in the way. If sensors are dirty or misaligned, the door may refuse to close. This can disrupt daily operations and frustrate staff.
The fix is usually simple. Cleaning the lenses and adjusting alignment solves most cases. However, if wiring is damaged, we may need to replace the sensors. Keeping the area clean and testing sensors weekly ensures safety and reliability.
Loose or Damaged Cables
Cables support the heavy lifting of the door alongside springs. With time, they fray, loosen, or snap. When that happens, one side of the door may sag or get stuck. A snapped cable can also cause sudden door drops, which are dangerous in busy spaces.
The only fix is replacement. We recommend using high quality, rated cables for the size of the door. Checking cable tension and wear marks during routine service prevents failure. A cable nearing its limit usually shows fraying near the drum.
Overhead Door Panel Damage
In commercial settings, forklifts, trucks, or heavy equipment sometimes bump into the door. This causes dents, cracks, or broken panels. Damaged panels affect insulation, security, and balance.
Fixing this issue may mean replacing only the damaged sections. If multiple panels are weak, replacing the whole door may be the smarter choice. Painting and sealing panels against rust helps them last longer. Even small dents should not be ignored, as they can spread stress to other parts.
Opener Chain or Belt Wear
Opener chains and belts pull the door up and down. They loosen, stretch, or wear over time. A loose chain makes grinding noises and slows door movement. If the belt snaps, the opener fails completely.
Adjusting tension often restores smooth operation. If the chain or belt is cracked or stretched beyond adjustment, replacement is required. Lubricating chains reduces wear, while belts require proper alignment to last longer. Scheduling preventive service through a commercial garage door booking page ensures these parts stay in shape.
Weather Stripping and Seal Problems
Doors that do not seal properly let in cold air, dust, and pests. In Calgary’s climate, poor seals increase heating costs and damage stored goods. Over time, weather stripping cracks, hardens, or pulls away from the frame.
The fix is straightforward. Replace the weather stripping and ensure proper fit. Choosing the right material for local weather helps it last longer. Checking the bottom seal each season prevents costly energy loss.
Rust and Corrosion on Hardware
Metal parts exposed to moisture or salt eventually rust. Hinges, brackets, and bolts weaken, making the door unsafe. Corrosion also increases friction, which puts strain on openers and springs.
We treat mild rust with cleaning and protective coating. If hardware is deeply corroded, replacement is the only safe option. Applying lubricant that resists moisture and inspecting regularly keeps rust under control.
Motor Overheating
In busy commercial sites, doors may open and close many times each hour. Motors can overheat if they work beyond their rated duty cycle. When this happens, the motor shuts down until it cools, delaying operations.
The fix is often upgrading to a motor designed for heavy use. Ensuring proper ventilation around the motor also helps. Monitoring usage and adjusting schedules prevents overheating. Knowing the cycle rating of a motor before installation avoids future problems.
FAQ
What is the most dangerous commercial garage door problem?
A broken spring is the most dangerous issue because of the high tension it holds. It can cause serious injury if handled without training.
How often should we service our commercial garage doors?
For doors that see heavy daily use, twice a year is recommended. Light use doors may be serviced once a year.
Can misaligned sensors stop a garage door from closing?
Yes. Even a small misalignment or dirt on the lens can prevent the door from closing properly.
When should we replace rather than repair a door?
If multiple panels, tracks, or the opener are damaged beyond simple fixes, replacement is usually more cost effective and safer.
Is it safe to operate a door with a frayed cable?
No. A frayed cable can snap at any time, causing the door to fall unevenly or drop suddenly, which is unsafe.